Jerry Edmonds

Jerry Lee Edmonds, 77, of Gretna, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2025, at Ochsner Medical Center - Westbank, after a brief illness. He was surrounded by his family, as he left us in peace and love. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at 10 a.m., at Cross Community Church in Marrero, Louisiana, with visitation at the church prior to the service, from 9 a.m - 10 a.m.

Jerry was born on November 12, 1947, in Evansville, Indiana, to Gerald A. and Lucille Black Edmonds. He was the beloved husband of Karen Underwood Edmonds for 54 years. Jerry was baptized as a young man and was a member of Cross Community Church, where he remained steadfast in his faith.

He proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1968 to 1972, stationed in Korea and Taiwan, working in security communications. He also played trumpet in the drum and bugle corps. Before his service, Jerry worked for Brown & Root in Venice, Louisiana. After the military, he was hired as an operator on the startup crew for the Gulf Alliance Refinery in Belle Chasse, Louisiana-marking the beginning of a 37-year career as an Operator and Maintenance Supervisor in the petrochemical industry.

Jerry also served for several years as a volunteer firefighter with the Terrytown Volunteer Fire Department, Station 53. In retirement, he pursued a wide range of hobbies including reading, leatherwork, wood carving, and teaching himself to play the guitar. A devoted NASCAR fan, he took many trips to Talladega and enjoyed the camaraderie and thrill of the races. Above all, Jerry cherished time with his family. He had a warm heart, a quick wit, and a laugh that could light up a room and make you laugh along.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Karen Edmonds of Gretna; daughters Tonyah (Wayne) Carbo of Harvey and Tamara Edmonds of Ponchatoula; and son Matthew (Sandy) Edmonds of Prairieville. He was a proud granddad to Taylor Edmonds, Amber Carbo, Austin Carbo, Mandy Edmonds, and Hayden Edmonds. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and cherished friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gerald and Lucille Edmonds, and his sister, Janet Clark.

Flowers may be delivered to Cross Community Church at 3233 Ames Blvd, Marrero, La. on Friday May 2 between the hours of 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. and Saturday May 3 between the hours of 9 a.m.- 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Cross Community Church at Ames. https://crosscommunitychurch.churchcenter.com/giving